Aachener Automobil Design Award (AADA) Presented for the First Time

(Left to right): Carolyn Schulteis (2nd place), Jan-Frederik Niehues (1st place), and Jan Rienäcker (2nd place) in front of the winning concept "EZRA"

Aachen, July 2018 – On July 18, 2018, the Aachener Automobil Design Award (AADA) was presented for the first time. This award, which will be regularly promoted by the Aachen University of Applied Sciences in the future, was endowed with 2,750 euros this year. The award is sponsored by FEV, the globally active provider of engineering services, and its subsidiary, Imperia, both headquartered in Aachen.

Students in the Design Department participated in a Design Study Program where they had to develop a comprehensive concept for a roadster of the future within one semester. In addition to the focus placed on the product design, students also had to take into account other aspects such as the technical components of the vehicle, including engine type and performance. Based on this, vehicle packaging, production and marketing were also developed. Design students received technical support from fellow students who are studying vehicle construction and aerospace technology.

Five judges, comprised of professors from the Aachen University of Applied Sciences and corporate representatives from FEV and Imperia, made a unanimous decision on the winner. Jan-Frederik Niehues was voted the winner, and his comprehensive roadster, “EZRA”, distinguished itself by successfully bringing the outer design of the roadster to the inside of the vehicle. The general design language, combined with innovative details, was considered very successful.

Additionally, Niehues’ presentation was well-received due to the strong likelihood of implementation. Niehues received the grand prize of 1,250 euros, and the second place spot was shared by two students, Carolyn Schulties and Jan Rienäcker, who each received a prize of 750 euros.

The experience that all participants have gathered over the past few months is priceless. Students especially enjoyed the strong connection to real-world design throughout the project. The insights from and collaboration with other areas of expertise, necessary for this type of concept development, were also seen as a positivegood preparation for the work world.

"We consider the award to be an important element of the higher education we provide, in order to support aspiring designers in finding themselves and exchanging with other disciplines. Learning from your mistakes and developing your own design instincts are essential in this regard," states Professor Manfred Wagner, AADA jury member from the Design Department at the Aachen University of Applied Sciences. "After a successful beginning, we look forward to a rewarding continuation with our sponsors, FEV and Imperia, without which an implementation like this at our university would not have been possible. Theyhey also help us continue to strengthen the automotive center Aachen with regard to mobility design."

About Imperia
‘Engineered by Imperia’ is a synonym for engineering services with very high specialist expertise and commitment in the development of vehicle body systems and new vehicle concepts.

As a member of the globally active FEV Group, Imperia distinguishes itself with an extensive range of services and its own innovative products, especially in the execution of complex, technology-driven projects. Whether for the development of serial solutions or for the testing of new technologies, Imperia stands for the vision of shaping the automotive world of the future together with its customers and partners.